How can we ensure our contributions align with the spirit of Nehemiah 10:37? The Text at the Heart “We will also bring the first of our dough, our contributions, the fruit of every tree, the new wine and olive oil, to the priests at the storerooms of the house of our God, and bring a tenth of our land’s produce to the Levites, for it is the Levites who collect the tithes in all the towns where we work.” (Nehemiah 10:37) What Was Happening in Nehemiah’s Day? • God’s people had just renewed their covenant after years of neglect. • They pledged to put first things first—especially the “first” of their resources. • Their gifts supported temple worship, the priests, and the Levites so corporate faithfulness could flourish. Principles We Can Apply Today • First-priority giving: God receives the “first” portion, not the leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). • Proportional giving: A set “tenth” then, an intentional percentage now (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Purposeful giving: Resources go where God’s worship and His people’s spiritual care are advanced (Malachi 3:10). • Community responsibility: Everyone contributes; no believer is exempt from stewardship. • Accountability: Gifts were delivered to storerooms—visible, verifiable, orderly. Practical Steps for Faithful Giving 1. Budget with worship in mind—carve out the Lord’s portion before allocating anything else. 2. Determine a percentage that reflects reverence and trust; review it annually for growth. 3. Channel gifts to your local church first, then to biblically sound ministries that extend kingdom impact. 4. Automate or schedule offerings so they remain consistent, just as Israel brought firstfruits “in all the towns where we work.” 5. Keep records; transparency protects the witness of Christ’s body. Safeguards for the Heart • Cheerfulness—“God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). • Integrity—“If you have not been faithful with worldly wealth, who will entrust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:11). • Expectation—“See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure” (Malachi 3:10). • Eternal perspective—earthly resources are temporary; kingdom reward is lasting. Promises to Remember • Sowing generously brings a generous harvest (2 Corinthians 9:6). • Faithful stewardship positions us for greater spiritual responsibility (Luke 16:11). • Honoring the Lord with firstfruits invites His plenty (Proverbs 3:9-10). By embracing these timeless principles, our contributions today echo the wholehearted devotion pictured in Nehemiah 10:37, ensuring they truly align with the spirit of that covenant renewal. |
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